Customer Reviews

Schizophrenic

5 star:		(126)
4 star:		(40)
3 star:		(12)
2 star:		(11)
1 star:		(26)

 

 

It's curious why "Schizophrenic," the appropriately titled solo debut JC Chasez of 'NSync fame, has sold little since its recent release.

While not appropriate for any of 'NSync's preteen fanbase, it would be selling hand over fist if it were marketed as well as Justin Timberlake's 2002 solo effort that pales in freshness and originality.

The first single. "Some Girls (Dance With Women)," while a decent track, was far from the best choice for the LP's lead single. However, there is no excuse for the ultra-addictive second single, "All Day Long I Dream About Sex," getting so little airplay.

The song, which pays gratitude to the sound the Human League made famous back in the '80s with hits such as "Fascination," is without a doubt the best pop single released so far this year. Perhaps the FCC and Janet have had some influence in keeping songs that literally say "sex" off the air, however one has to concede that a great deal of songs that have been in the Top 40 as of late are overtly sexual.

It seems the word "sex" is more important to censor than actual subject matter, thus "100 Ways," if made a single, would fit the bill; it is even more sexually charged (if that is possible), but never brings up the word.

While many pop music critics have trashed this album -- citing it has no musical direction -- it is this fact that makes "Schizophrenic" such a satisfying listen.

"Build My World," about his desire not to be lonely, features strong lyrics:

"Someone for everyone but no one for me/Constantly searching for the love I need to/Build my world around, around/I'll be the lonely one until I find someone/The one I build my world around."

Other notable tracks are the bittersweet "Dear Goodbye," lyrically altered in tribute to Gregg Arreguin, Chasez's friend who penned the original track with him before passing away; "Shake It" an adventurous collaboration with Basement Jaxx; the bouncy "Everything You Want" and "She Got Me," a light-hearted song about falling for an extraterrestrial.

Very few were surprised by bandmate Justin Timberlake's successful solo effort 'Justified' a mere 16 months ago. No matter how many cameras clicked frantically in front of the band for a magazine cover or paparrazzi shoot, it was no surprise to find Timberlake front a center. It was even less of a surprise that Timberlake's debut was a strong step forward for the talented young artist and the Grammys it received were well-deserved.

2 years after the *NSYNC hiatus began, enter JC Chasez: the enigma of *NSYNC. As 'Schizophrenic' proves, Chasez has a long and lustrious career ahead of him.

Opting not for the hip hop sounds of the Neptunes of Timbaland as Timberlake did, Chasez takes both a step backwards and a step forwards simultaneously - taking influences from the past and making them relevant to the present and beyond.

Fan of Sting and the Police? Check out the nu-reggae head bobber "Everything You Want." Looking for Led Zepplin meets 21st century production and pop sensibility? Check out "If You Were My Girl." Ready for the 80's dance floor anthems? "All Day Long I Dream About Sex," "She Got Me", and the Corey Hart sampling "Come To Me" are waiting for you. Remember the power of *NSYNC balladry? "Build My World," "Dear Goodbye," and "Lose Myself" all go a step beyond any of *NSYNC's ballads and break the cookie-cutter mold for pop ballads. A fan of electronica? Basement Jaxx makes an appearance on "Shake It." Fan of Prince? "100 Ways" is 21st century Prince.

JC Chasez's solo debut is the best of album of 2004 that will sadly slip under many people's radars. Despite the fact that JC is the "other *NSYNC guy," a few facts remain:

- While this is promoted as teen pop by Jive Records, this is an adult album.
- While "Some Girls" was chosen as the lead single for this album, it's hip hop-lite credibility and guest appearance by Dirt McGirt misrepresent this diverse and incredible album.
- Pretty smiles and controversial ex-girlfriends aside, Chasez is and always has been the voice in *NSYNC.
- 'Schizophernic' has something for EVERYBODY.

First, there was 'Justified.' Now, there's 'Schizophrenic.' Guess those *NSYNC guys (well, 2 of them, at least) had some serious staying-power in the music industry, after all.

This album is electronica meets 1986 meets pop sensibility that comes from selling 30 million albums meets the Police meets something new and undiscovered... sounds strange? It better be. It's 'Schizophrenic.'

JC Chasez: Vocalist, piansit, guitarist, producer... and it's time for the world to find out who this guy with the un-pronouncable last name is.

I don't own any NSync albums and have never given Justin Timberlake much of a passing thought, yet here I am in possession of a boy-band solo project (heaven help me). For whatever reason, Chasez' voice was always more pleasant to my ear than any other NSync-er; more distinct, more...potential. Timberlake did the expected: an R&B-tinged, blue-eyed, new-wave Michael Jackson impersonation. Ho-hum (wake me when it's over). Chasez, on the other hand, seems to have a need to channel the sounds, beats, styles and vocal levels of whatever mood he's in on any given day. Hence the title "Schizophrenic". A better title would have been "Schizo-frenetic" because the music generates heat. This CD is pretty damn good! Although I may never look at him quite the same since the song, "All Day Long I Dream About Sex". I didn't need to know that, but it's an outstanding jam to do the Robot to!

From the Stevie Wonder-esque "She Got Me", to the reggae "Mercy" and, probably one of the most tender and well-emoted ballads I've heard in a while, "Dear Goodbye" (lovely rhythm guitar, expressive vocals), Chasez got down to business making an album that you can shake your groove-thing to, feel love to and get naughty with in the privacy of the club or of your own bedroom. And when he does get naughty, it's quite respectful with his ladyfriend's best interests in mind. "Shake it-Do it 'til you're satisfied"- okay, if you insist. I did giggle at the "I Wear My Sunglasses at Night" intro on "Come To Me", but I got over it real quick (sexy song). And I had no idea that he had the funk of "100 Ways" in him- it reeks of Prince-like guitar, bass and drum play (and bless you, JC, for sneaking those horns in there), not to mention altered state-like vocals. Speaking of vocals, I'd be doing Chasez an injustice if I didn't mention that he's got some sweet octaves that I didn't notice before (like 3:23 min/sec into "Lose Myself")

On the lyrical side of things, Chasez shines as a creative and free-thinking writer who doesn't shy away from exposing himself (and if your mind wanders with that thought, don't blame me). Nothing's predictable here, and that is it's strength. So, in case you can't tell, I'm more than pleased that I took a chance on JC ..., because he's taken plenty of them himself on this project. Yes, there's a sample or two and, yes, he's influenced by other artists (who isn't??). But I think that you can hear him strong and have no doubt that he's in his own groovy, little world.

I really like this CD. It had to grow on me because I didn't like it, initially. He seems to be influenced by Lenny Kravitz and Prince and I totally respect his blunt honesty on his take on love an relationships in some of the songs...

My favorite song on the album is "Come to Me." I think the sample that was used in the song was really different and I am glad that he hooked up with Rocwilder for the track. Also, I have to go with the reviewer that paid attention to the lyrics of the song. It's not just about (...), it's also about missing that one person that he wants to be with and he eventually resorts to it. It's just about longing.

"All Day Long I Think About Sex," This song is, to me, the BEST song on the album. It reminds me of "Blue Monday" and I really hope he does some remixes of the song too.

"Dear Goodbye" is also a great song on the cd as well, that one had to grow on me because I thought it was too *N'Sync-ish. But after a few spins I liked it. I'm with everyone else though when it comes to the songs: "100 Ways" & "Shake It."

I really do wish this CD did better than Justin Timberlake's solo effort just to give him some more competition. Don't get me wrong, Justin's alright, but his album was really "safe" while J.C. brings the excitement, boldness and danger that really makes a performer A PERFORMER and an ARTIST!

J.C. should just leave the group and do his own thing!

After reading many negetive reviews about this album, I just HAVE to put my two cents in now. Most of these people raving-lunatic about how his lyrics are all about sex are NOT hearing the whole story to his songs. I admit, some of the lyrics are laughable (especially in One Night Stand), but did we notice the OUTSTANDING vocals in that song? Nope.

And, "Come To Me" is not just about him masterbating away. Listen to the song, paint a picture in your head. He's telling a story of how he misses his "significant other" who has, apparently left him after a fight, and he's thinking about that person. Sex isn't something that's always disgusting, it can be considered ROMANTIC too.

"Mercy" is in my top 3 list. It's slow at first, but it picks up with a great beat. Someone said this song doesn't make sense, but it does to me. He likes this girl and he did something wrong. (Bloodshot eyes, it's so painful to see you with them, etc..) He needs Mercy.

How can anyone not love "Shake It"? This song is a party song, and to me, this song is the least sexual. It has the weird lyrics provided by Basementjaxx (which we love them for). Did I mention I love the break-down? Oh girl, I wanna spark up your touch..

Everyone seems to not like "Everything You Want". I love this song. The best vocals are in this song. Lyrics are good and are concentrating on a different subject other than sex, beat is awesome. It's Reggae but it's tolerable reggae.

IF YOU WERE MY GIRL... when JC said this album was for fun, this is where you see that explanation SHINE. This song is the funnest one. The screaming towards the end might seem very annoying to first time listeners/fans of JC, but if you've been following him since *NSYNC you know he was having a good time with this song and just did what he felt would make his fans SMILE. (It made me laugh). Don't forget JC is a DORK.

I had to clear those few comments up. Now here's my last one on "Right Here". I hate this song. It's the worst sounding song on this CD. It's so "cookie-cutter" and I skip it every time I forget it comes on next. I've never been interested in this song enough to actually hear the whole thing. And some people say this song is one of the best?

Top 5:
1. Shake It
2. Lose Myself
3. Mercy
4. 100 Ways
5. She Got Me

Overall, I think JC did an outstanding job on this CD. It's not so mainstream like the crap that's out now.. (Can Beyonce shut up for a while?). That's the main reason why he's not doing good in the US. Too many people are worried about being "naughty girls" and "punks" when that's all just an image that will quickly fade. Congrats, JC. Don't be mainstream. They know music in the UK! :D

I'm surprised it doesn't have the "parental advisory" on it because this album is SO roughly sexual and outrageous. I'm so impressed with JC, I thought he was going to play safe and make a debut full of love songs for teen girls but..oh my good! This album is a breathe of fresh air in the music industry, with all the females who act like "bad girls", now we finally have a MAN who openly talks about SEX. I know this album is not going to sell and it will flop on the charts, because when pop stars take risks, they're always gonna lose a lot of fans, people are too close minded to buy this kind of stuff..but I'm very proud of him, he really impressed me. I liked "Justified" (Justin Timberlake's debut album) but this one is so much better, JC sings better than Justin and his songs are fun and really innovative, unlike Justin who tried to be innovative on his album but ended up being boring as hell.

When I got this record I was amazed at how completely different from an NSYNC record it is. JC wrote a lot for NSYNC but Schizophrenic has a completely different feel. A lot of people compare it to Justified which I don't think is fair because Justin and JC are two completely different artists but if you want my opinion, I think that Schizophrenic has a lot more to offer that Jusified does. If you're looking for music that is a little bit off the beaten path then Schizophrenic is definately for you. JC's voice is absolutely beautiful as is showcased in many of these songs. He's also more of an adult than a lot of the "teen pop" people out there (he's 28 for God's sakes) and he has more profound things going on up there than say...Justin? There's a vast array of songs, sonnets and dance tracks and then some in the middle but they're all unique and a lot of fun to listen to and figure out.

Also if you have the awesome opportunity to see him perform solo (I think hes trying to do another tour, a world tour this time) then definately do it. You'll be blown away, I promise you.

It's hard not to discuss JC Chasez without discussing *Nsync. And for a long time, it was hard to discuss *Nsync without bringing up the Backstreet Boys, whom *Nsync followed. For me, JC Chasez most embodied what made *Nsync different from the Backstreet Boys. That is, Backstreet could come off boisterous and goofy, but JC (in the beginning, anyhow) struck me as focused, intense and serious. And he also seemed to the "leader" of *Nsync on the first album, with his star turns on "For The Girl Who Has Everything" and "Sailing." Very smooth, soothing, debonair, mysterious (actually) he seemed. Then by the time the "Bye Bye Bye" video dropped, JC seemed to slowly allow Justin to begin his inevitable domination of not only *Nsync, but the pop music world in general.

So what does this do to a former "lead" presence? Understandably, it could trigger an identity crisis, or some other mental disturbance. Which is why Schizophrenic is such a perfect title for what JC must have been (and is probably still going through) in the wake of Justin Timberlake's ascent into becoming the "coolest white man on the planet" since Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. But JC didn't shy away from the challenge apparently - and although it did take quite some time for this album to finally see some light, now that it's here, I'm happy to say that overall, it is an enjoyable affair. To say this collection of songs are a mixed bag would be accurate in my view - some songs are really not so good in my humble opinion, while others soar. I'll quickly summarize the album according to me:

"Some Girls (Dance With Women)" is ridiculously smooth, and while it isn't very radio-friendly (at all), I think it would sound *great* at a club in some escapist environment, like Las Vegas, a tropical boat cruise, or even Miami. This song definitely grew on me -- originally I was disappointed. "She Got Me" is the 'alien' song that I've heard about for some time...and it's OK to me...definitely plays it safe. "100 Ways" has an energetic Prince/80s' vibe that I find refreshing as a gen X-er. "Mercy" is an OK song to me as well...I'm not sure I'm a fan of his vocals here.

"Build My World" is stunningly beautiful -- this had BETTER BE A SINGLE, because it is definitely one of the best, if not best songs on this album...and marks a return to the smooth JC I remember from the first *Nsync album. "Something Special" has a down-home, natural feel that you can tell JC really feels. This could also be a single, and it does give Justin a run for his money in terms of making something with an organic, feel-good vibe to it. "If You Were My Girl" is a 2004-take on JC's 'dirty pop' invention that he first unleashed with "Digital Get Down" from NSA.

But the real "dirty pop" record that had me impressed from the jump was "Shake It," which bumps and grinds with a sweaty confidence that is utterly pleasing to the ears of those who can lock themselves in its jittery groove. Bravo JC for this one. "Shake It" samples "Do It (Till Your Satisfied" by BT Express - a great funk record from the '70s. "All Day Long..." I'm just going to assume is a nod to his European fans, because I can imagine the breezy feel of this song taking off across the pond. However, I personally cannot stand this song, and it would have never made the album if I were in charge.

"One Night Stand" is zany, and probably best reflects JC Chasez's real personality. I guess I like it. "Come To Me" (produced by hip-hop producer Rockwilder) is definitely one of the best tracks on this album...and it had BETTER BE A SINGLE as well. And it's not like the lyrics on this one are any more racy than some of the other material here, so it fits. Cory Hart's "Sunglasses At Night" gets a post-millennial update on this winner of a track.

"Dear Goodbye" has a live, organic feel, and passionate vocals from Mr. Chasez. Earnest and sensitive can best describe "Dear Goodbye." Next up is another favorite of mine that comes out of nowhere in terms of style (but it lifts elements from Sting/The Police very well) is the summer-y sounding "Everything You Want." Like "Son Of A Gun" by Janet Jackson and "More Than That" by the Backstreet Boys, this is the song on the album that is most *different* from the rest of the collection. I like "Everything You Want" a lot.

Oh my goodness...."Lose Myself" is yet another gorgeous ballad that sort of recalls "Kiss From A Rose" by Seal from the early 90s. Remember that one? Well, if you're a fan of the plush *Nsync ballads of yesteryear, you should dig this one. We end with "Right Here," yet another organic-sounding song that ends the album on a great note. There are some bonus tracks (depending on which version you have) but they shouldn't be anything you haven't heard. Overall, I feel the album starts OK, but gets better throughout the middle and the end.

So there you have it -- you've read the review of a satisfied buyer. I don't think this album will sell the way 'Justified' did, but then again, I'm not sure that was the point. But the songs "Shake It," "Build My World," "Come To Me," "Dear Goodbye," "Everything You Want," "Lose Myself," and "Right Here By Your Side," make this album *more* than worthy of owning. Proceed without caution. And congratulations, JC.

It's not often that I'm wrong about my perception of an album but I was on this one and I'm not ashamed to admit it. When I heard the concept for Schizophrenic I didn't think it would be a good album. After previewing a few tracks I decided to give it a try and bought it. I'm really glad I did because I would have missed out on one of the best debut albums that I've ever purchased. The music of Schizophrenic is a raw mixture of Rock, R&B, Hip-hop, Reggae and house dance that is presented in a non-confirmative way.
When I first started listening to Schizophrenic I thought wow the songs style are really different I don't know if this is going to work but by the end of my listening session I had stopped thinking about how different the songs were and could only focus on how much I liked what I was hearing. This album works and it feels right. Not only is there something on the album for everyone but also if you think you don't love a particular type of music you will listen to this album and like it. There are obvious musical influences in JC's music like in the songs "100 ways", "If you were my girl" and "Everything you want" that brings back memories and makes you feel good.
Out of the 15 tracks (I say 15 because one is a re-release "Blowing me Up with her love and the other a remix of "Some Girls") on this disc there are only about two songs I don't really love. That pretty amazing because I usually only like about half the songs on a CD. This album makes your body move. There are surefire club tracks like "All Day Long I Dream About Sex" and the first released single, "Some Girls". JC does pause a few times to make you reflect during well-sung ballads like "Dear Goodbye" and "Lose Myself". Forget your paradigms about teen pop and give this album a try. You'll be glad you did.

RJ

Let me clarify something: I hate teen pop. Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, Briteny, Christina, etc - they made music suck in the late 90's. Truly. Cliched, unimaginative, drawl and anonymous pop ditties sung by GC models reinvented the pop wheel, apparently, lapping up teeny-boppers wallets like money was lemonade. Timberlake I hate with a passion. Simply having songs produced by, as SPIN so eloquently put it, "card-carrying African Americans", does not garner instant credibility. I love the Neptunes and the uncomperable Timbaland, but was disappointed all around with their "JT" collabs. This garnered Grammys for "JT". Warren Zevon is spinning in his grave (write something a 10th as good as "Keep Me In You Heart" JT, and then some MIGHT respect you).

So, imagine my disgust when finding out that JC Chasez was working with BT ... and then Basement Jaxx, the latter having released "Kish Kash", the greatest big-beat album to date (easily surpassing the Chemical Bros. and even Fatboy Slim and Daft Punk). As soon as I found out that the Jaxx were producing on JC's album, I realized I was going to have to get the album for that singular reason.

And, dammit - it has a degree of respectability.

The constant saying of this "Schizophrenic" album being all over the place is actually grounded in truth. What's even more so is simply how many of the tracks WORK. "100 Ways" is a Devo song that's never been recorded, "A.D.I.D.A.S." as good a Joy Division rip-off I've ever heard (even his friggin' voice is similar!), and "Come to Me" is a peak-era Eurythmics ballad. Even the NSYNC-style ballads still, somehow, avoid the crappy speak-n-spell sentimentality that usually plagues them. And yes, "Shake It" with Basement Jaxx is about a start-n-stop overstuffed dance work that, yes, is good. The Drumline single is an added bonus, and even the phoned-in Dirt McGrit (ODB) cameo is actually fairly amusing ("you and your girlfriend / sexual whirlwind").

If only every teen pop album were as likeable and diverse as this ... there just might be hope for the world. (And only if DJ Dangermouse could produce a few of these tracks ... then we'd have something.)